Understanding Plant Available Water (PAW) to optimize irrigation management

SoilSense's algorithm takes guesswork out of irrigation by providing clear Plant Available water insights

For years, soil moisture has been a central metric in agricultural irrigation management. However, the concept of Plant Available Water (PAW) goes beyond simple moisture levels. PAW refers specifically to the range of soil moisture that plants can actively absorb through their roots. It sits between field capacity—when the soil has absorbed as much water as it can after drainage—and the permanent wilting point, where plants can no longer draw water, resulting in stress and potential crop failure.

Understanding this range is vital because soil moisture above field capacity can lead to waterlogging, while moisture levels below it can cause drought stress and stunt plant growth.

Every soil type has different water retention characteristics, which makes it essential to assess your specific soil's ability to hold and release water to plants.

For example, clay-rich soils hold more water than sandy soils, but that doesn’t mean more water is available to plants. The fine pores in clay hold water tightly, making it harder for roots to extract it, even if the soil appears moist. Conversely, sandy soils may drain quickly, leaving plants thirsty sooner. This makes a deep understanding of PaW vital for aligning irrigation schedules with the true water needs of crops.

With SoilSense, you can take the guesswork out of irrigation management. By transforming Volumetric Water Content (VWC) data into actionable PAW insights, the system provides precise, localized information tailored to the field’s specific conditions. Unlike generic water management guidelines, SoilSense offers real-time data based on historical trends, soil types, and crop needs, allowing for irrigation decisions that are both efficient and sustainable.

SoilSense doesn’t just stop at data collection. Our system continuously monitors soil moisture levels and provides real-time feedback to your smartphone or computer, helping growers keep soil moisture within the optimal PaW range. This means you can respond instantly to changes in moisture levels, preventing both overwatering and drought stress, while ensuring crops are consistently in the best possible conditions to thrive.